Composer

:

Douglas Knehans

Genre

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

2011

Average_duration

:

27:03

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Cascade is a contemporary classical music composition by American composer Douglas Knehans. It was composed in 2015 and premiered on March 6, 2016, by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Louis Langrée. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, titled "Rush," is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic nature. It begins with a fast-paced ostinato in the strings, which is then joined by the woodwinds and brass. The music builds in intensity, with the percussion adding to the driving rhythm. The movement reaches a climax before subsiding into a quieter section, featuring a solo violin and cello. The opening ostinato returns, and the movement ends with a final burst of energy. The second movement, "Flow," is more lyrical and introspective. It begins with a solo oboe, which is then joined by the strings. The music is characterized by its flowing, undulating nature, with the different sections of the orchestra passing the melody back and forth. The movement builds to a climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The final movement, "Surge," is the most dramatic and intense of the three. It begins with a pounding rhythm in the percussion, which is then joined by the brass and strings. The music is characterized by its driving, relentless energy, with the different sections of the orchestra building on each other to create a sense of urgency and excitement. The movement reaches a climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda, bringing the piece to a close. Overall, Cascade is a dynamic and exciting piece of contemporary classical music, showcasing Knehans' skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both challenging and accessible.

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